About This Book
First Peter encourages believers suffering persecution to stand firm in God's grace, living as holy exiles whose hope rests in Christ's return and eternal inheritance. Peter praises God for giving new birth into living hope through Christ's resurrection, producing an inheritance imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven. Though suffering trials temporarily, faith proved genuine will result in praise and glory when Jesus appears. Prophets searched regarding the salvation predicted, serving not themselves but believers whom the Holy Spirit has now enlightened.
As obedient children, be holy because God is holy. Having been redeemed by Christ's precious blood, love one another deeply from pure hearts, being born again through God's living, enduring Word. Crave spiritual milk to grow in salvation. Believers constitute a chosen race, royal priesthood, and holy nation, declaring God's excellencies.
As foreigners and exiles, abstain from fleshly passions and maintain good conduct among Gentiles. Submit to governing authorities, honoring everyone while loving the brotherhood and fearing God. Household slaves should submit even to harsh masters, following Christ's example who suffered unjustly without retaliating, bearing sins in His body on the cross. Wives should submit to husbands, potentially winning them through conduct.
Husbands should live understandingly with wives, honoring them as co-heirs. Christians should pursue unity, love, compassion, and blessing others rather than returning evil. Don't fear intimidation but honor Christ as Lord, always ready to explain the hope within with gentleness and respect. Suffering for righteousness beats suffering for wrongdoing.
Christ suffered once for sins, bringing believers to God. The end is near—be self-controlled and prayerful, loving earnestly and showing hospitality. Elders should shepherd willingly; younger members submit.